Rediscovering My Purpose

I realized that while I thoroughly enjoyed the work I was doing, the role itself wasn’t fulfilling my purpose. I thrive on collaboration, brainstorming, and creativity, but the demands of leadership—combined with my tendency to put everyone else’s needs ahead of my own—left me overwhelmed. My personal well-being had fallen to the bottom of my priority list, and I’d lost the sense of joy and fulfillment that originally drew me to recruitment marketing.

I loved my field. I loved being a part of someone’s career journey, helping connect people to opportunities and working with such incredible colleagues. But deep down, I knew something had to change. So, I did something I’d never thought I’d do. I took a “step back”.

And it was the best decision I’ve ever made.

Now, as a senior recruitment marketing specialist on the talent acquisition team, I see my career through a whole new lens. This role has allowed me to re-engage with the work I love in a way that feels fresh and exciting. I’m energized by the opportunity to learn new hands-on skills, build on the knowledge I already have, and focus on creative, meaningful ways to connect with job seekers.

The Power of Supportive Leadership and Resources

Thankfully, I was part of an organization that truly values its employees' well-being. It’s no exaggeration to say my growth in this role wouldn’t have been possible without the support of compassionate leaders and the wealth of resources Ochsner offers its team members.

One of the key resources that helped me navigate personal challenges was the Employee Assistance Program. Through this resource, I was able to connect with a counselor and access five free sessions, which provided invaluable guidance as I worked through those challenging moments. Additionally, the organization’s focus on personal well-being made me feel supported and confident in my decision to make a change.

Redefining Career Growth

What’s important to me—and what I hope others take away from this—is that career growth doesn’t have to follow a straight path. Growth doesn’t always mean moving up. Sometimes, taking a step back or to the side is exactly what you need to leap forward. For me, it wasn’t a “step back” at all; it was a chance to enrich my journey, deepen my passion and rediscover what brings me joy.

Your career doesn’t have to look like anyone else’s. It’s okay if it’s not a perfect ladder but a winding, messy, and unique road. At the end of the day, what matters is that it’s your journey—and that it leads you to a place where you feel fulfilled, engaged and excited about what’s ahead.

Learn more about how you can find purpose in your career journey with Ochsner Health.